Understanding the different types of networks is essential for anyone preparing for CCNA or working in the IT field. Networks are classified based on how large they are, how far they extend, and what purpose they serve. The four most common types are LAN, WAN, MAN, and PAN.
1. LAN (Local Area Network)
Definition
A LAN connects devices within a small and limited area such as a home, office, school, or building. It’s fast, reliable, and usually managed by a single organization.
Real-World Examples
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Your home Wi-Fi connecting your mobile, laptop, and smart TV
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Office network where computers, printers, and servers communicate
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School or college computer lab
Where You See It in Daily Life
When you share a file with someone using the same office network or print something over Wi-Fi, you’re using a LAN.
2. WAN (Wide Area Network)
Definition
A WAN covers a very large geographical area and connects multiple LANs. WANs are often managed by telecom companies because they require high-capacity communication links.
Real-World Examples
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The Internet—the largest WAN in the world
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A company with offices in multiple cities connected through leased lines
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ATM networks that link machines to the bank’s central servers
Where You See It in Daily Life
When you access a website hosted in another country, your request travels through a WAN.
3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
Definition
A MAN sits between LAN and WAN. It covers a larger area than a campus or building but smaller than a nationwide network. Typically used to connect multiple LANs in the same city.
Real-World Examples
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City-wide cable TV networks
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Government networks connecting different departments within a city
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University campuses spread across multiple city blocks
Where You See It in Daily Life
If your city provides free public Wi-Fi across major areas, that’s a MAN.
4. PAN (Personal Area Network)
Definition
A PAN connects personal devices within a range of a few meters. It is the smallest type of network.
Real-World Examples
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Bluetooth connection between your phone and earbuds
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Smartwatch linked to your mobile
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Mobile hotspot shared between two devices
Where You See It in Daily Life
When you transfer files via Bluetooth, you’re using a PAN.
Quick Comparison Table
| Network Type | Full Form | Coverage Area | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAN | Personal Area Network | A few meters | Phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices |
| LAN | Local Area Network | Room / building | Homes, offices, labs |
| MAN | Metropolitan Area Network | City or large campus | ISPs, government networks |
| WAN | Wide Area Network | Multiple cities/countries | Internet, corporate branches |